Century-old Polish coal mine to be transformed into technology hub

Render of the future technology hub at the Wieczorek coal mine in Katowice, Poland. Image courtesy Strabag

Strabag Sp. z o.o., the Polish subsidiary of Austria-based Strabag, was awarded the first-phase construction contract on 1 August. The deal, valued at about €135 million (US$158 million), covers a 32-month programme to restore and modernise the 100-year-old complex, creating research laboratories, demonstration areas and space for technology-oriented businesses, including those in e-sports, artificial intelligence and other emerging sectors.

The redevelopment will integrate renewable energy systems and climate-friendly building technologies and will also include a public park. 

“As part of our Strategy 2030, we are specifically focusing on future fields such as reconstruction, conversion, and refurbishment, as well as technological leadership,” said Stefan Kratochwill, CEO of Strabag. 

The scheme forms part of Katowice’s strategy to convert former industrial sites into hubs for knowledge transfer, technological development and sustainable urban growth. Strabag described the project as a “lighthouse” initiative in the city’s shift from an industrial to an innovation-driven economy.

The company is carrying out similar regeneration work in nearby Dąbrowa Górnicza, where the former Desum machine tool plant is being redeveloped into the “Living Factory” – a mixed-use complex combining workplaces, cultural facilities, dining areas and traffic-calmed public spaces.

Image courtesy Strabag

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